Two nests of the invasive red imported fire ant has been detected and destroyed in Harmony Estate in Palmview on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, raising concerns across the construction industry and local communities. The detection, confirmed by Biosecurity Queensland, marks a critical moment for builders and trades operating in the fast-growing corridor between Brisbane and Noosa.

Fire ants are a serious biosecurity threat, known for their aggressive swarming behaviour and painful stings that can lead to severe allergic reactions. Their presence has significant implications not just for the environment and public health, but also for the building industry.

Residential Construction Hot Zones For Fire Ants

Over the past 12 months, every one of the nine new fire ant outbreaks found outside the official biosecurity containment zone has occurred on residential construction sites.

These sites span rapidly growing areas in Queensland, including Palmview, North Arm, Currimundi, Nirimba, Cedarton, D’Aguilar, and Meringandan West, as well as two locations in northern New South Wales: Wardell and Murwillumbah.

Ants in Building Materials

The National Fire Ant Eradication Program is now working closely with developers, including those at Harmony Palmview, after a recent pest management inspection uncovered several active nests on-site.

Fire ants are highly mobile and can easily spread through common building and landscaping materials such as mulch, turf, potted plants, and soil, which are often transported between sites.

Their stings are more than just painful. The venom can trigger reactions ranging from itchy pustules to, in rare cases, severe anaphylaxis and even fatalities in extreme instances.

Inspectors from the National Fire Ant Eradication Program are continuing to survey bushland, parks, gardens, and playgrounds across Palmview as part of their containment efforts.

Once a new biosecurity zone is officially declared around the latest outbreak, it’s expected to have significant impacts on turf farms, nurseries, and landscaping suppliers operating within a 5-kilometre radius.

Source: Australian Wildlife Society in partnership with Invasive Species Council

Where To Go Stay Updated

Report Suspected Ants If you see a suspicious nest or are stung, report it immediately to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

Fire Ant Eradication Program Visit fireants.org.au for detailed maps, permit applications, and educational materials.

Author: The Good Builder

The Good Builder is a media platform that provides news and insights for Australia’s home building industry. From exclusive stories and curated insights to bold industry perspectives, we deliver the news and updates that keep builders, suppliers, and the entire home building industry inspired and ahead of the curve.